Tom McCaughren: 'Maybe young people who work in media now had never heard of me. I was locked out of RTE in every way'

Tom McCaughren’s recent novel, The Whitethorn of the Dancing, released in 2022, reflects on the complex legacy of Northern Ireland and the cultural dynamics—underscoring that Catholic schools were not the sole bearers of cruelty during the troubled decades of conflict. His experiences as a former security correspondent inform his understanding of the multilayered narratives contained within the region’s history, highlighting how different community schools contributed to both educational and social fractures.

McCaughren's enduring literary impact is seen in his children's book, Run with the Wind, which achieved the ‘book of the decade’ accolade for the 1980s—a testament to his skill in navigating poignant themes related to identity and belonging. The novel's success across multiple languages signifies not only its universal message but also the author’s talent in crafting stories that resonate deeply, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. His work continues to engage readers with its insightful examination of personal and shared histories.

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